UK to Host 35-Nation Meeting on Reopening Strait of Hormuz, Says PM Starmer

Islamabad (April 1, 2026): British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced on Wednesday that the United Kingdom will host a major meeting this week involving approximately 35 countries to discuss ways to reopen the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, which has been disrupted by ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.

The meeting will be chaired by UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, although an exact date has not been disclosed. Speaking at a press conference in Downing Street, Starmer said the summit will review all diplomatic and political measures to restore free navigation, ensure the safety of stranded ships and crews, and resume the flow of critical goods.

Following the meeting, military experts will also be consulted to explore measures for securing and maintaining safe access to the strait once hostilities subside. Participating countries include the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the Netherlands—nations that recently pledged to contribute to efforts ensuring safe passage through the Strait.

Iran has effectively closed the waterway since US and Israeli operations began on February 28, causing a global rise in oil and gas prices. Historically, around one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas passes through this strategic channel.

Starmer cautioned that reopening the strait will not be an easy task and reiterated the UK’s full support for NATO. He defended the alliance against criticisms from former US President Donald Trump, who previously described NATO as a “paper tiger” and warned of severe consequences if member states fail to assist in reopening key maritime routes.